This project is submitted for

Description

Using an internet connected microcontroller (probably a NodeMCU) running MicroPython we will be able to connect a soldering iron to Github. This device will be able to track when a soldering iron turns on and when it is removed from it's cradle and submit that information as a commit.

Details

Challenges addressed:

Github has done wonders for social coding. One of Github's most distinctive features is the the contribution heatmap. This tracks your commits and in no way encourages burnout [1]. Currently Github tracks almost every coding language with one glaring omission: solder. Time spent soldering has not been tracked and in turn can be considered wasted. All of that changes today.

Solutions:

Using an internet connected microcontroller (probably a NodeMCU) running MicroPython we will be able to connect a soldering iron to Github. This device will be able to track when the iron turns on and when it is removed from it's cradle.

The soldering iron after being turned on will use the microcontroller to log time out of the cradle and put an entry into a Github repository with a durational timestamp in it's commit message [2].

Components

Project Logs

The initial pass of the iron removal detection is finished. This uses a pair of IR Beam breakers attached to the iron holder. After some experimentation a large binder clip handle was extremely well suited for the job.

The part in question is the HD-DS25CM-3MM. It is a simple digital IR break beam sensor that can be tied directly to one the MCU pins.